1. Pros and cons of
economic, social and
political globalization
Is globalization overall positive for our societies?
2. Pros of globalization
Economic
• Cheaper prices for products
and services (more
optimized supply chains)
• Better availability of
products and services
• Easier access to capitals and
commodities
• Increased competition
• Producers and retailers can
diversify their markets and
contribute to economic
growth
Cultural
• Access to new cultural products
(art, entertainment, education)
• Better understanding of foreign
values and attitudes. Less
stereotypes and
misconceptions about other
people and cultures
• Capacity to communicate and
defend one’s values and ideals
globally
• Instant access to information
from anywhere in the world
• Customisation or adaptation of
global cultural trends to local
environment (“mestisage”)
Political
• Access to international aid
and support
• It contributes to world
peace. It reduces risk of
invasions, more checks to big
powers and limitation to
nationalism.
• Smaller countries can work
together and gain more
influence internationally
• International organizations
are often committed to
spread values like freedom
and to fight abuses within
countries
• Governments can learn from
each other
3. Cons of globalization
Economic
• Some countries struggle to
compete
• Extractive behavior of some
foreign companies and
investors
• Strong bargaining power of
multinational companies vis-
à-vis local governments
• “Contagion effect” is most
likely in times of crises
• Problems of “social
dumping”
Cultural
• Dangers of cultural
homogenization
• Westernization, cultural
imperialism or cultural
colonialism
• Some small cultures may lose
their distinct features
• Dangerous or violent ideals can
also spread faster
• Spread of commodity-based
consumer culture
Political
• State sovereignty is reduced
• The functioning of
international and
supranational organizations
is often not “democratic” in
terms of representation and
accountability.
• Big countries can shape
decisions in supranational
organizations
• Sometimes countries can
veto decisions and slow
down decision making
processes
• Coordination is difficult and
expensive
4. Poll results so far (still open)
Is globalization overall positive for our societies?